If you’re one of the millions of Americans receiving RSDI (Retirement, Survivors, and Disability Insurance) benefits, there’s some good news: a monthly payment of up to $1,853 is being sent out this May — and it could hit your bank account sooner than you think.
But there’s a catch: your birth date determines exactly when you get paid, and missing that detail can leave you confused (or worse — short on funds when you need them most). Here’s the full scoop on when these payments go out, who qualifies, and how much you can expect to receive.
Payment Dates Are Set by Your Birth Day — Not the Month You Were Born
The Social Security Administration uses a simple but specific schedule to decide when to send out payments. If you started receiving benefits after May 1997, your check date is tied to the day of the month you were born, not the month.
Here’s the May 2025 payment schedule:
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If your birthday falls between the 1st and 10th → You’ll receive your payment on Wednesday, May 8
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If your birthday is between the 11th and 20th → Your payment arrives on Wednesday, May 15
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If you were born between the 21st and 31st → Your check is scheduled for Wednesday, May 22
What if you’ve been getting benefits since before May 1997? Then your payment comes early — you should have already received it on Friday, May 3.
These rules apply whether you’re receiving Social Security retirement, disability benefits (SSDI), or survivor benefits under the RSDI umbrella.
How Much Will You Get? The Average Is $1,853 — But It Can Vary
The average monthly RSDI benefit in 2025 is around $1,853, but this amount isn’t the same for everyone. Your actual payment depends on:
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How much you earned during your working years
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Whether you took benefits early or waited until full retirement age
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If you’re receiving payments as a spouse, widow, or disabled worker
Some retirees who delayed benefits until age 70 could receive well over $2,000 per month, while others may see smaller deposits — especially if they started collecting early or had lower lifetime earnings.
If you’re not sure what you’re eligible for, you can always check your personalized estimate at ssa.gov through your My Social Security account.
Where Will the Money Show Up? Here’s How It’s Delivered
Most recipients receive their RSDI payments through direct deposit into a bank account or via a Direct Express® debit card. Funds usually arrive by the end of the day on your scheduled Wednesday, but bank processing times may vary slightly depending on your institution.
If your money doesn’t show up on the expected date, the SSA recommends waiting three full business days before calling for help at 1-800-772-1213.
Why This Schedule Matters More Than You Think
For millions of Americans — especially those living on a fixed income — knowing exactly when your Social Security check hits is essential for paying bills, buying groceries, and staying financially stable. A delay of even a day or two can throw off your entire budget if you’re not prepared.
By planning around the official RSDI payment calendar, you can avoid unnecessary stress and manage your cash flow more effectively.
